Matthew Stafford NFL Fantasy Profiles

News

Set to work with new coordinator

Stafford will work with a new offensive coordinator in 2019 after the Lions hired Darrell Bevell to replace Jim Bob Cooter, ESPN.com's Michael Rothstein reports.

Analysis: Cooter helped Stafford produce three straight seasons (2015-17) with at least 7.2 yards per attempt and a completion percentage above 65, but the Lions opted not to renew their coordinator's contract after a disappointing 2018 campaign. Personnel seemed to be a bigger problem than coaching, with Golden Tate traded away in late October and Marvin Jones suffering a season-ending knee injury shortly thereafter. It didn't help that the team insisted on giving LeGarrette Blount carries (154) even as…read more

Published: Mon, Jan 21 at 12:55pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Finishes 2018 on high note

Stafford completed 20 of 32 pass attempts for 266 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 31-0 win against the Packers.

Analysis: Entering Week 17, Stafford was coming off a gauntlet run of elite NFL secondaries. A veteran with seven consecutive 4,200-yard passing seasons prior to 2018, Stafford was limited to an underwhelming 187.7 passing yards per game with a 5:5 TD:INT ratio over his past six outings. This slump having come while facing four of the league's 10 best pass defenses in Buffalo, Minnesota, Arizona and Chicago, Stafford was poised for a bounce-back performance taking on a Green Bay defense that entered the…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 30 at 12:55pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Brutal performance in loss

Analysis: Stafford moved the ball well early, but he couldn't finish off drives as his team took a 9-0 lead on three field goals. The offense completely stalled after that, and Detroit's starting quarterback was even removed for backup Matt Cassel in the fourth quarter with the game well in hand for the opposition. Even if the Lions decide against shutting Stafford down for the meaningless finale in Green Bay, his 1,126 passing yards and 3:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio over the past six weeks don't…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 23 at 2:47pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Active Week 16

Stafford (back) is active for Sunday's game against the Vikings, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.

Analysis: Stafford has contended with a back injury in advance of each of the Lions' past three contests, but again it won't stop him from being available, marking his 127th consecutive start. In the previous two outings, he combined for only 309 yards and one touchdown at a clip of 5.9 yards per attempt, numbers that he may replicate versus a Minnesota pass defense that has allowed just 170.8 yards per game, three touchdowns and 6.3 YPA to quarterbacks over the last five games.

Published: Sun, Dec 23 at 8:41am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

On track to play

Stafford (back), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Vikings, is expected to play, a source tells Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Analysis: Given Stafford's history of playing at less-than-optimal health, there never seemed to be much concern that he wouldn't be available in Week 16, especially after he was at least able to practice on a limited basis Wednesday through Friday. Though he'll likely be good to go, Stafford's weekly fantasy utility has taken a significant hit in the second half with a number of injuries befalling the Lions' skill-position players. Stafford should at least be buoyed by top wideout Kenny Golladay (chest)…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 23 at 5:22am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Questionable for Week 16

The Lions are listing Stafford (back) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Vikings.

Analysis: Stafford's practice participation was limited throughout the week while he manages the back issue, which has been plaguing him for much of the past month. Even with the postseason out of reach for the Lions, it's not expected that Stafford is at major risk of sitting out this weekend, given his lengthy track record of playing through pain. Still, he won't make for an alluring fantasy option due to the poor collection of talent surrounding him. Star running back Kerryon Johnson (knee) joined…read more

Published: Fri, Dec 21 at 12:44pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Remains limited at practice

Stafford (back) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

Analysis: Stafford's reps were also restricted Wednesday, but coach Matt Patricia hasn't suggested that any shutdown plan is in the works for the star quarterback, who hasn't missed a start since 2010. Even if he advances to full participation in practice Friday to clear up concern about his back injury, Stafford should be viewed as a low-end fantasy option after posting a 5:5 TD:INT over his past seven games while failing to eclipse 300 passing yards in any of those outings.

Published: Thu, Dec 20 at 1:27pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Limited by back again

Stafford (back) was listed as a limited participant at Wednesday's practice.

Analysis: For the third straight week, the Lions are placing a cap on Stafford's reps due to the back injury. However, his ensuing pair of performances yielded just 309 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions on 52 pass attempts. While there's not much doubt that he'll be available Week 16, a matchup with the Vikings' fourth-ranked pass defense isn't exactly enticing.

Published: Wed, Dec 19 at 1:25pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Quiet in road loss

Stafford (back) completed 22 of 29 passes for 208 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 14-13 loss to Buffalo.

Analysis: Stafford did most of his damage when hooking up with Kenny Golladay, who accounted for 146 of Stafford's 208 yards. The quarterback's lone touchdown was a four-yard score to Andy Jones in the second quarter. With a 3:3 touchdown to interception ratio over the past five games and fewer than 250 passing yards in each of those contests, Stafford shouldn't be on the radar in one-quarterback formats against the Vikings in Week 16.

Published: Sun, Dec 16 at 1:10pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Available Week 15

Stafford (back) is active for Sunday's game at Buffalo.

Analysis: Despite tending to a back injury, Stafford will be available for the second week in a row. That said, he's facing the Bills' No. 1 pass defense without the services of Kerryon Johnson (knee) and Bruce Ellington (hamstring), so Stafford doesn't exactly have the greatest matchup.

Published: Sun, Dec 16 at 8:44am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Expects to suit up Sunday

Stafford expects to play through a back injury Sunday at Buffalo, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports. "I played with it last week, so I plan on playing with it again," Stafford said Friday.

Analysis: Limited by the issue for a second consecutive week, Stafford nonetheless is set on suiting up, as intimated by his comment. In his first attempt to do so, he managed just 101 passing yards Week 14 at Arizona, and an upcoming matchup with the top-ranked Bills pass defense isn't exactly inviting, especially with Kerryon Johnson (knee) and Bruce Ellington (hamstring) unavailable.

Published: Fri, Dec 14 at 1:03pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Remains limited Thursday

Stafford (back) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday.

Analysis: Stafford was tagged as limited on Wednesday's estimated injury report, so maintaining that level of activity in an actual practice signals he'll be fine to play through a back injury for a second consecutive game Sunday against the Bills' top-ranked pass defense. In the first one, he managed a career-worst 101 yards, no touchdowns and zero picks on 15-for-23 passing Week 14 in Arizona.

Published: Thu, Dec 13 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Starts week limited

Stafford (back) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.

Analysis: Stafford played through the same injury during Sunday's 17-3 win over the Cardinals, completing 15 of 23 passes for a career-low 101 yards. He should be able to play again this week, but there isn't much cause for optimism in a road matchup with a Buffalo defense that has surrendered just 6.4 yards per pass attempt, the second-best mark in the NFL.

Published: Wed, Dec 12 at 1:39pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Posts career low in passing yardage

Stafford completed 15 of 23 passes for 101 yards during Sunday's 17-3 victory over Arizona. He also rushed once for seven yards.

Analysis: Playing with a sore back that limited him in practice all week, Stafford had trouble finding open receivers against a Patrick Peterson-led secondary that entered the game ranked 10th in terms of yards allowed per pass attempt (7.2). He ultimately finished with his all-time lowest yardage output in any game he's started and finished, though the Lions pulled out the win on the back of strong defense and a serviceable running game. Without Marvin Jones Jr. (knee) and Golden Tate (traded to…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 9 at 4:38pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Suiting up Week 14

Analysis: Stafford will shrug off the back injury that limited him in practice all week, making his 125th start in a row in the process. Although he can be relied upon to be available from game to game, his current weapons don't give him the best chance to succeed. With Golden Tate in Philadelphia, Marvin Jones (knee) on injured reserve and Kerryon Johnson (knee) inactive, Stafford has had modest production the last two contests, totaling 481 yards and one touchdown versus three interceptions.

Published: Sun, Dec 9 at 11:58am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Trending toward playing Week 14

Stafford (back), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, is expected to play, a source tells Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Analysis: With 124 consecutive starts under his belt, Stafford is about as durable as they come at quarterback, so his status never looked to be in serious peril even after the back issue limited his participation in practice throughout the week. While he'll be less 100 percent healthy if he suits up, the greater concern for Stafford may be the lack of playmakers surrounding him on offense. For the third straight game, the Lions will be without the services of both top running back Kerryon Johnson (knee)…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 9 at 5:20am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Listed as questionable for Sunday

Stafford (back) is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest in Arizona.

Analysis: Although Stafford was limited in practice all week, he ranks second among active offensive players in consecutive starts with 124, so he has a streak to uphold. Assuming he's active this weekend, he'll be facing a tough Cardinals defense that is fifth against the pass (220.4 yards per game) and has allowed the third-fewest scores (16) to quarterbacks in 12 contests this season.

Published: Fri, Dec 7 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Limited Thursday

Stafford (back) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.

Analysis: Estimated as a limited participant on Wednesday's injury report, Stafford maintained that level of activity Thursday. Like wide receiver Kenny Golladay (quadriceps), Stafford doesn't appear to be in danger of missing Sunday's game at Arizona, but his status will continue to be monitored as the weekend draws closer.

Published: Thu, Dec 6 at 1:24pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Limited with back issue

Stafford was a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a back injury, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: With no reports indicating Stafford's back issue is a concern, he should be able to play Sunday in Arizona, flanked by a depleted supporting cast that also includes wideouts Kenny Golladay (quad) and Bruce Ellington (back), who were also limited Wednesday. The Cardinals have allowed just 7.2 yards per pass attempt and 1.4 passing scores per game, typically getting gouged on the ground instead.

Published: Wed, Dec 5 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Solid in defeat

Stafford completed 20 of 33 passes for 245 yards with one touchdown and one interception in the Lions' 30-16 loss to the Rams on Sunday. He also gained two yards on his sole rush and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Stafford turned in a serviceable stat line for fantasy purposes, but he still committed another pair of turnovers, including an interception in the end zone with 17 seconds remaining that snuffed out any last hopes the Lions may have had of completing a comeback. The veteran signal-caller is clearly hampered in an offense that's now down two of its top three receivers from the start of the season, and that was missing star rookie running back Kerryon Johnson (knee) on Sunday as well. Stafford…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 2 at 2:11pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Sinks team's chances with two picks

Stafford completed 28 of 38 passes for 236 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions in the Lions' 23-16 loss to the Bears on Thursday.

Analysis: Stafford's final line was adequate in terms of completion percentage and yardage, but an absence of touchdown passes coupled with his two interceptions told the tale of the afternoon. The veteran quarterback's first pick was returned for a touchdown by Eddie Jackson with six minutes remaining and the game deadlocked at 16-16. However, Stafford appeared to be on his way to rallying the Lions for a potential game-tying touchdown before he was intercepted yet again by Kyle Fuller at the Bears'…read more

Published: Thu, Nov 22 at 12:55pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Avoids mistakes in Week 11 win

Stafford completed 23 of 37 passes for 220 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions in the Lions' 20-19 win over the Panthers on Sunday. He also gained six yards on three rushes.

Analysis: Stafford managed to stay away from any miscues, making it his second interception-free game in the last three. The veteran signal-caller generated a solid performance despite the absence of Marvin Jones (knee), as he found Kenny Golladay on eight occasions for 113 yards and also displayed solid rapport with the recently arrived Bruce Ellington (6-52). Stafford will look to put together another solid effort in four days against the Bears in a Thanksgiving Day divisional battle, a game that Jones…read more

Published: Sun, Nov 18 at 2:15pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Pair of touchdowns in losing effort

Stafford completed 25 of 42 passes for 274 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the Lions' 34-22 loss to the Bears on Sunday. He also rushed twice for nine yards and fumbled once but got the recovery.

Analysis: Stafford put up over 40 pass attempts for the second time in the last three games with the Lions facing a large deficit, which also led to his fifth game of over 270 passing yards this season. He also has thrown multiple touchdowns in six of his last seven contests, with Kenny Golladay and Kerryon Johnson on the receiving end of his passing scores Sunday. The fact he lost Marvin Jones to a knee injury in the second half certainly didn't help Stafford's cause, and he ultimately ran out of time…read more

Published: Sun, Nov 11 at 2:20pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Held under 200 yards

Stafford completed 25 of 36 passes for 199 yards without a touchdown or interception in Sunday's 24-9 loss to the Vikings. He also rushed five times for six yards and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Stafford was under siege throughout, taking 10 sacks. His fumble came on a regrettable decision to pitch the ball back to his running back on the outside, leading to a 32-yard Vikings defensive touchdown when the play went awry. If Stafford doesn't get better protection in Week 10 against the ferocious Bears defense, he could be in for another ugly afternoon.

Published: Sun, Nov 4 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Turns the ball over twice in loss

Stafford completed 27 of 40 passes for 310 yards, two touchdowns and an interception during Sunday's 28-14 loss to Seattle. He added six yards on one carry and a lost fumble on the ground.

Analysis: Flushed out of the pocket, Stafford muscled the ball 39 yards downfield to a streaking Marvin Jones for the game's first touchdown late in the first quarter. Detroit didn't strike again until the fourth quarter, when Seattle had already taken control of the game. The Lions did not have their newfound run game on Sunday. Consequently, Stafford showed that, albeit in a losing effort, he's still able to pile up stats when counted on to run the whole show. His interception was just his second since…read more

Published: Sun, Oct 28 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Tosses two scores in win

Stafford completed 18 of 22 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 32-21 win over Miami. He added nine rushing yards on four carries.

Analysis: What sort of alternate universe are we living in where Detroit runs for 248 yards and Stafford winds up with just 22 passing attempts? If this represents an extension of a new, more balanced Lions offense, fans can probably expect a less dynamic -- but more efficient -- Stafford. The Lions have boasted a 100-yard rusher twice in the past four games, with Stafford completing 72.8 percent of his passes during that span with a TD:INT of 8:1. After his methodical execution of a stingy Miami pass…read more

Published: Sun, Oct 21 at 1:23pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Pair of touchdowns in Week 5 win

Stafford completed 14 of 26 passes for 183 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in the Lions' 31-23 win over the Packers on Sunday. He also lost a yard on his sole rush.

Analysis: It was an unusually muted day through the air for the Lions, who fed two different running backs with double-digit carries for the second time this season. That led to a season-low amount of attempts and passing yardage for Stafford, but he still managed to throw for multiple scores for the fourth consecutive contest. The 10-year veteran now boasts a 10:5 TD:INT through five games and will look to stay hot against the Dolphins in Week 7 following a Week 6 bye.

Published: Sun, Oct 7 at 2:13pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Throws two touchdowns in loss to Cowboys

Stafford completed 24 of 30 pass attempts for 307 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 26-24 loss to the Cowboys.

Analysis: Stafford completed 80 percent of his passes as he averaged a healthy 10.2 yards per attempt. His overall numbers were driven by a pair of long touchdown passes to Golden Tate, including one in the final minutes which put the visitors ahead. Unfortunately for Stafford, his team fell to 1-3 on a field goal in the final seconds, but he's been excellent over the last three weeks and is averaging 305 yards per game to go along with a 7:1 TD:INT ratio during that span. He'll look to keep it up in…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 30 at 3:20pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Leads upset over New England

Stafford completed 27 of 36 passes for 262 yards with two touchdowns and one interception during Sunday's 26-10 victory over the Patriots. He added 10 rushing yards on his lone carry.

Analysis: Stafford built upon his solid Week 2 performance and is quickly making everyone forget about how this Lions team got blown out by the Jets in Detroit's season opener. In this one, Stafford outdueled Tom Brady by stringing together long drives in order to keep the Patriots offense on the sidelines. The Lions dominated time of possession roughly 39 minutes to 21. This development was largely a result of Detroit's newfound success in the run game, headlined by the fact that Kerryon Johnson became…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 23 at 8:38pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Bounces back in Week 2 loss

Stafford completed 34 of 53 passes for 347 yards with three touchdowns and zero interceptions during Sunday's 30-27 loss to the 49ers. He also rushed once for eight yards and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Stafford bounced back from a miserable Week 1 performance, improving in almost every significant passing category and nearly rallying his team to a come-from-behind victory in the fourth quarter. Despite the team's offseason commitment to the running game, Stafford has been extremely busy through the first two games of the year; the Lions have thrown the ball on over three-fourths of their offensive plays thus far. The fact that Detroit has trailed by at least a 14-point deficit in the fourth…read more

Published: Sun, Sep 16 at 5:06pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Dreadful in blowout loss

Stafford completed 27 of 46 passes for 286 yards, a touchdown and four interceptions in Monday night's 48-17 loss to the Jets.

Analysis: Stafford endured a disastrous start to this season. The lone bright spot of his performance was a 24-yard touchdown to Golden Tate to begin the third quarter. Besides that, he threw two interceptions on both sides of halftime, including one that was easily returned for a touchdown. Furthermore, he took a cleat to the leg during the first half and was forced into a one-play exit after being crunched by two defenders while throwing during the third quarter. With his team down 31 points, Stafford…read more

Published: Mon, Sep 10 at 7:32pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Looks mediocre again

Stafford completed nine of 18 passes for 113 yards in Friday's preseason game at Tampa Bay.

Analysis: Stafford played into the third quarter and set up three field-goal attempts on five drives. He also took three sacks along the way, after taking two in a brief appearance last week. Stafford presumably will be held out of the Lions' preseason finale, thus finishing the exhibition slate having completed 11 of 23 passes for 164 yards without any touchdowns or interceptions. He'll open the regular season with a favorable home matchup against the Jets on Monday Night Football (Sept. 10).

Published: Fri, Aug 24 at 8:01pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Should see extended playing time Friday

Head coach Matt Patricia plans to give Stafford and the rest of the Detroit starters extended playing time in Friday's preseason game against Tampa Bay, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: Patricia stopped short of stating exactly how much run he expects to give his first-team offense, but he did say he wants to get his team into "a regular-season mode," which suggests Stafford should get at least a few possessions Friday. The inability to pinpoint exactly how much Stafford will play obviously renders the quarterback a risky pick in DFS contests, but it could pay off if he stays in the game deep into the second quarter.

Published: Wed, Aug 22 at 7:10pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Limited action in preseason debut

Stafford completed two of five passes for 51 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions during Friday's preseason game against the Giants.

Analysis: Making his 2018 preseason debut, Stafford did what he could, but the quarterback was pulled from the game rather quickly after taking two sacks -- plus another that was wiped out be a defensive penalty -- behind an offensive line that seemed out of sync. However, there's optimism this trend won't continue into the regular season once offensive guard T.J. Lang (undisclosed) is back in action, especially if first-round rookie Frank Ragnow can acclimate to the professional stage sooner than later.…read more

Published: Fri, Aug 17 at 7:22pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Likely to play Friday

Stafford likely will play in Friday's preseason game against the Giants, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official website reports.

Analysis: Stafford came out in uniform for the Lions' first preseason game but didn't actually play in the contest. He'll likely play at least one or two drives Friday night, though coach Matt Patricia hasn't commented on his plan for the quarterbacks.

Published: Fri, Aug 17 at 1:35pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Suiting up Friday

Stafford is on the Lions' sideline with pads and a helmet before Friday's preseason game against the Raiders, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Stafford wasn't warming up with the Lions' pass catchers, so initial reports favored him sitting this one out. It's still not guaranteed that Stafford will play, but most quarterbacks in his situation would be in street clothes otherwise.

Published: Fri, Aug 10 at 6:45pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Unlikely to dress Friday

Stafford isn't expected to suit up for Friday's preseason game against the Raiders, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.

Analysis: There's no reason to risk injury to the Lions' franchise signal caller, so backups Matt Cassel and Jake Rudock will lead the offense in the preseason opener.

Published: Fri, Aug 10 at 6:04pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Analysis: The Lions are banking on Golladay's development along with an improved running game to make up for the offseason departures of tight ends Eric Ebron and Darren Fells. The team did sign Luke Willson and Levine Toilolo to join 2017 fourth-round pick Michael Roberts, but the trio will have a tough time matching the 751 yards and seven TDs provided by Ebron and Fells last season. The Lions otherwise devoted their offseason to building a decent rushing attack, something Stafford hasn't had since…read more

Published: Fri, Jun 22 at 6:21am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Stafford completed 20 of 29 passes for 323 yards and three touchdowns during Sunday's 35-11 victory over Green Bay. He also caught a two-point conversion while rushing twice for two yards.

Analysis: Stafford capped off another statistically-strong season in Detroit by putting together one of his most masterful games in recent memory, as his 140.4 passer rating was his highest mark since 2015. The Georgia product ended the campaign in style, too, sneaking behind the Packers defense to catch a two-point conversion on a trick play in the fourth quarter. Stafford will now finish the season with a fantastic stat line that includes 4,446 yards passing, a 65.5 completion percentage, 7.9 YPA mark…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 3:11pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Lions head coach Jim Caldwell said he won't give any consideration for resting Stafford during Sunday's season finale against the Packers, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: The 8-7 Lions were officially eliminated from playoff contention after their Week 16 loss to the Bengals, but with a winning record for the season still achievable, it doesn't sound like the team will rest its regulars for an otherwise meaningless finale. Stafford has been playing through a bruise on his throwing hand throughout this month and sprained his ankle in late November, but it hasn't translated to a dramatic downturn in his productivity over the last five games. During that time, he's…read more

Published: Tue, Dec 26 at 10:49am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Stafford completed 19 of 35 pass attempts for 203 yards, one touchdown and one interception Sunday against the Bengals. He also gained seven yards on his lone carry in the 26-17 loss.

Analysis: Stafford completed just 54 percent of his passes and recorded an average of 5.8 yards per attempt en route to his second-lowest yardage total of the season. He opened the scoring with a 33-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter, but the offense scuffled after that and finished with its lowest point total since Week 8. Most importantly, the loss eliminated Stafford and company from playoff contention, so it remains to be seen whether they choose to deploy all of their regulars for next week's…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 24 at 4:41pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Stafford completed 25 of 33 passes for 237 yards and two touchdowns during Saturday's 20-10 victory over the Bears. He also lost a fumble while rushing once for minus-1 yard.

Analysis: Stafford appears to be operating at full health, as Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reported that Stafford didn't tape up his bruised throwing hand Saturday and won't need to moving forward. Even with this recent injury, Stafford currently boasts an 80.2 percent completion rate over his past three games. He was passing at a 62.5 percent clip in the 11 games prior. While he only completed two of 10 passes that traveled over 10 yards Saturday, Stafford excelled in the short-to-intermediate…read more

Published: Sat, Dec 16 at 9:35pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Excels despite hand injury

Stafford (hand) completed 36 of 44 passes for 381 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 24-21 win over the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Stafford had apparently looked increasingly better each day in practice this past week, and he parlayed that improvement into his second-best passing yardage total of the season. The veteran signal caller connected with eight different pass catchers on the afternoon and led an eight-play, 49-yard drive that set up a game-winning field goal by Matt Prater with 20 seconds remaining. It was Stafford's fourth 300-yard effort of the season, and he's also thrown for between 292 and 299 yards in three…read more

Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 2:25pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Playing through bruised hand

Stafford (hand) is listed as active Sunday at Tampa Bay.

Analysis: As he did throughout the week, Stafford will take the field Sunday with the ring and pinkie fingers taped on his bruised right hand, per Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. Playing through a finger issue last season, Stafford completed 59.5 percent of his passes, averaged 271.3 yards through the air per game, and posted two touchdowns versus three interceptions across four outings.

Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 9:10am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Expected to start Sunday

Stafford's throwing hand made daily improvement over the week, and the quarterback is expected to start Sunday against the Buccaneers, per a source, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Barring any unforeseen setbacks, Stafford will face a Tampa Bay team that ranks 31st in passing defense (267.3 YPG) and 21st in points per game (24.0).

Published: Sat, Dec 9 at 8:38pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Enters weekend as questionable

Stafford (right hand) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay.

Analysis: Head coach Jim Caldwell opened Friday's media session with nary an answer about Stafford's health, saying he's "progressing" and throwing "decently." During the open portion of practice, though, Stafford let it rip, despite having two fingers taped on his bruised throwing hand. Among his tosses, he completed a 45-yarder to Bradley Marquez. Perhaps the biggest question mark around Stafford's potential output is the state of the offensive line, as starting right tackle Rick Wagner (ankle), right…read more

Published: Fri, Dec 8 at 12:28pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Limited again Thursday

Stafford was listed as a limited participant during Thursday's practice.

Analysis: Though Stafford wasn't upgraded to full participation in practice, it nonetheless seems he stepped up his involvement during the session. According to Kyle Meinke of MLive.com, Stafford was able to throw during the 15 minutes of practice made available to the media, with his touch passes looking normal. However, because Stafford had two fingers taped up during the workout -- one less finger than he taped Monday -- his throws were lacking in zip, which could hinder his effectiveness by the time…read more

Published: Thu, Dec 7 at 1:13pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Very limited at practice

Despite being listed as a limited participant, Stafford didn't appear to make any throws at Wednesday's practice, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: The Lions may have allowed Stafford to throw when the medi a wasn't watching, but he was limited to handing the ball off with his left hand while the press was around. Head coach Jim Caldwell confirmed that the bruising and swelling in Stafford's right hand is a significant issue, saying that his quarterback isn't yet out of the woods in terms of gaining clearance for Sunday's game in Tampa Bay. This already seems to be trending toward a game-time decision, with 2016 sixth-round pick Jake…read more

Published: Wed, Dec 6 at 1:18pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

No throws Wednesday

Stafford (hand) didn't throw during the portion of Wednesday's practice open to the media, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Prior to the session, head coach Jim Caldwell told Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com that Stafford is "not out of the woods yet" as it pertains to Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, noting the contusion on the quarterback's right hand isn't insignificant. The lack of throws doesn't mean Stafford ultimately won't be deemed a limited participant Wednesday, especially after he was able to hand off the ball with his left hand. Backup quarterback Jake Rudock handled the majority of reps, though, so the Lions…read more

Published: Wed, Dec 6 at 10:17am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

'Not out of the woods' with hand injury

Lions head coach Jim Caldwell said Wednesday that Stafford (hand) is "not out of the woods yet" and indicated that the quarterback's injury isn't insignificant, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Though X-rays came back negative on Stafford's right hand earlier this week, he's still dealing with a painful bruise that inhibits his ability to throw the ball. As a result, Stafford seems likely to be at least a limited participant in the team's first practice of the week Wednesday, if not held out of the session entirely. Because Stafford's status for Sunday's matchup with the Buccaneers is up in the air, Caldwell indicated that he would likely have to balance getting both Stafford and…read more

Published: Wed, Dec 6 at 8:01am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Bothered by bruising in hand

Stafford's right hand isn't broken, but it is very sore and badly bruised, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Given that X-rays came back negative, this wouldn't be much of a concern if it were an issue with Stafford's left hand. Unfortunately for the Lions, the injury is in the worst place possible for a quarterback, leaving Stafford's availability in question for Week 14 in Tampa Bay. Head coach Jim Caldwell said he isn't yet sure how the bruising will impact Stafford's ability to throw. Reports from practice will need to be watched closely this week, though it's possible the Lions try to hide…read more

Published: Mon, Dec 4 at 9:26am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Bruises hand Sunday

Head coach Jim Caldwell said X-rays came back negative on Stafford's right hand in the aftermath of Sunday's 44-20 loss at Baltimore.

Analysis: Although Stafford doesn't have a fracture, he does have significant bruising on the hand, according to Kyle Meinke of MLive.com. Stafford later told Meinke that he has "burning nerve pain" after his right hand was stepped on in the fourth quarter but expects it to be "OK." The Lions may not report on Stafford's health until the release of the first Week 14 injury report Wednesday, but it remains to be seen if his streak of 108 consecutive starts is in peril.

Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Suffers hand injury Sunday

Stafford is questionable to return to Sunday's game at Baltimore due to a right hand injury, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.

Analysis: Stafford was holding the hand tenderly as he walked to the locker room in the middle of the fourth quarter. If he fails to reenter the contest, he'll finish the day having completed 24 of 29 passes for 292 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Jake Rudock takes over the offense in Stafford's stead.

Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 1:00pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Practices without limitations

Stafford (ankle) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: Stafford came up gimpy in the aftermath of a 43-yard touchdown heave to Marvin Jones during the fourth quarter of the Lions' loss to the Vikings on Thanksgiving. Commenting on his right ankle Monday, he said that he had an X-ray after the game and was "feeling better," which foretold Wednesday's full session. Stafford can now prepare for Sunday's contest in Baltimore, whose defense has allowed just two touchdown passes to quarterbacks over its last five outings.

Published: Wed, Nov 29 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Ankle showing improvement

Stafford said his sprained ankle is "feeling better," Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: Appearing on 760 WJR's The Mitch Albom Show on Monday, Stafford said he received X-rays after Thursday's loss to the Vikings that evidently came back negative. He's now four days removed from first sustaining the injury and still has six days until the Lions kick off against the Ravens this weekend. While the quarterback is seemingly on track to suit up for that game, Wednesday's injury report will be a better indicator of Stafford's potential availability.

Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 4:20pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Says ankle isn't 100 percent

Stafford said Thursday that his right ankle was "not 100 percent" after he injured it during the Lions' 30-23 loss to the Vikings, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: Stafford hurt his ankle early in the fourth quarter on his 43-yard touchdown pass to Marvin Jones, with the injury seemingly derailing the Lions' comeback effort. Though he remained in the contest, Stafford completed only three of six passes for seven yards the rest of the way, with his final third-down pass proving especially costly, as he overthrew an open Golden Tate on what was essentially a game-sealing interception. Though his Thanksgiving Day ended on a sour note, Stafford indicated that…read more

Published: Fri, Nov 24 at 6:07am by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Stafford completed 20 of 35 passes for 250 yards, two touchdowns and one interception during Thursday's 30-23 loss to the Vikings. He also fumbled twice, losing one of them.

Analysis: The king of comebacks wasn't able to pull off any fourth-quarter magic Thanksgiving Day, thanks to a last-minute pass that bounced into the hands of the Vikings' 2016 Pro Bowl corner, Xavier Rhodes. Stafford wasn't all that impressive fantasy-wise, either, as he missed a number of seemingly easy throws and struggled his way to one of his lowest completion percentages of the year. On the bright side, Stafford seemed to avoid major injury after his right leg was rolled up on in the final quarter…read more

Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 2:06pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Stafford completed 21 of 31 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-24 win over Chicago.

Analysis: Stafford has been quietly impressive this season, with multiple touchdown passes in seven of 10 games. His numbers over Detroit's three-game winning streak have been superb, though. He's posted a seven:one touchdown:interception ratio and an absurd 10.1 yards per attempt. Stafford is humming, but it'll be interesting to see if his luck runs out next week against Minnesota. Stafford was held to 209 passing yards and no touchdowns against the Vikings' stout defense earlier this season.

Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 4:43pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Stafford completed 17 of 26 passes for 249 yards with three touchdowns and one interception while adding 17 yards on four carries in Sunday's 38-24 win over Cleveland.

Analysis: Stafford got some help from his teammates early on, as Detroit's two first-half touchdowns came on a running play and a fumble recovery. The league's highest-paid quarterback earned his money late, however, turning a 24-17 deficit into a 38-24 win with three touchdown passes in the final 16 minutes. Those scores of eight, 29 and 40 yards raised Stafford's TD:INT ratio to 17:5 on the season.

Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com

Excellent in win over Packers

Stafford completed 26 of 33 passes for 361 yards and two touchdowns in Monday night's 30-17 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Stafford finished Detroit's first drive with a 25-yard touchdown pass to Marvin Jones and never looked back, leading an offense that did not punt the ball Monday. Along with tossing another score to Jones during the fourth quarter, Stafford posted his third straight game with at least 300 yards through the air. Fresh off the momentum provided by Monday's win, Stafford will now look forward to a tasty home matchup against the lowly Browns in Week 10.

Published: Mon, Nov 6 at 8:30pm by Rotowire.comMore news and analysis available atNFL.com